For most people with multiple sclerosis, the fear of paralysis is overwhelming, because multiple sclerosis paralysis is seen as one of the most disabling symptoms that won’t allow them to live their lives to the fullest. It is needless to say, that not being unable to move an arm, or both, a leg or both, or all four limbs is not something that anybody wants, no matter the paralysis is caused by MS or not.

Multiple Sclerosis, as a degenerating disease, has a progression that is almost impossible to predict, which can mean that a person who was diagnosed can be in relatively good health ( by that it should be understand that the person doesn’t present a multitude of symptoms that interfere with his or her everyday life too much) or that person can have a fast progression that is going to put him or her in a wheelchair in a matter of years.

Even if there is no cure for multiple sclerosis for the moment, there are medications that can alleviate some of the symptoms of MS and also, can prevent them from worsening. It’s needless to say that multiple sclerosis paralysis is bound to appear and manifest itself at some extent. This is due to the fact that the nervous signals don’t reach their destination, which in turn means that some of the muscles won’t be used that much. However, there are things that can be done to prevent that – besides medication.

As it is well known by every MS patient, it is recommended by the doctors to exercise as much as possible. This is recommended because muscle weakness, and partial paralysis, is not at first a problem in the muscles, but a neurological problem. While it is true that the signals don’t reach their destination and some muscles get less information than others, exercising – even if it can be painful – makes the muscles work and keeps them in good shape.

It’s needless to say that even if one has strong muscles but the signals sent to them are unable to reach their destination, paralysis will set in, and the muscles will atrophy. This doesn’t mean that the multiple sclerosis paralysis will be complete (all four limbs) or permanent.

Paralysis in MS is usually best described as “paresis” meaning partial or mild paralysis due to muscle weakness.  If paresis occurs in one leg it’s called monoparesis, and if it occurs in both legs it’s called paraparesis. Paresis in one side of the body is medically called hemiparesis, and if paresis involves all four limbs it’s called quadraparesis.

So, what can a MS patient do? From a medical point of view the patient should take medication and exercise regularly. From a psychological point of view, it’s important to enjoy each day, avoid living in fear, and be prepared for what will happen. Facing one’s demons and having a plan for when the worse happens is always a good idea – the situation will seem desperate the first time a patient thinks about it, but there are plenty of people with paresis that are still able to enjoy life and the company and love of family and friends, even if in a wheelchair or in a bed.